PSC appearance not mandatory but will consider for national security – President

President Maithripala Sirisena addresses Editors/Udesh Guneratne PMD

Though the Attorney General has informed him that appearing before the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) probing the Easter attacks is at his discretion, President Maithripala Sirisena said that, as a leader who respects democracy, he would “act accordingly”.

Speaking at a progress review meeting on the Sectoral Oversight Committee (SOC) on National Security yesterday, the President said he would do so with the importance of national security in mind.

According to a press release from the President’s Media Division (PMD), Sirisena directed the SOC to expedite amendments to terrorism laws and introduce new legislation to prevent terrorism.

Decisions taken on national security should not be delayed, he said, stressing that it is vital to take such decisions immediately.

Sirisena also emphasised the need for commitment from all stakeholders to ensure that the country doesn’t face another tragedy like the Easter Sunday bombings.

The SOC is tasked with studying the proposals presented by a group of MPs following the 21 April attacks and amend legislation as needed.

Its report will look into 15 major areas covering a wide range of topics including immigration, emigration, terrorism financing, web publishing, false propaganda, cybersecurity and education.

This was the first time in the history of the Parliament of Sri Lanka that a President attended this committee meeting, the PMD said.